The Nexus between Digital Transformation and Operational Efficiency in Emerging Economies: A Case Study of SheCanCode – Rwanda
The adoption of digital technologies has become a strategic imperative for businesses seeking not only to survive but to thrive in an environment characterized by rapid technological advancements and heightened global competition. Digital transformation has become a must-have for all businesses as an essential strategy not just to benefit from the opportunities it presents but also to stay relevant. This paper was able to consider the intricate relationship between digital transformation and operational efficiency within the context of a Rwandan-based organization, SheCanCode, a non-profit organization working to bridge the digital skills gap among women by empowering them to enter and remain in the tech industry. With a desktop literature review and a case study, this paper showed the level of awareness, adaptation, and operational effects from digital transformation within SheCanCode Rwanda, where the main focus was on its initiatives and their implications on operational efficiency. Through qualitative and quantitative inquiry, insights were gathered from 8 participants, 4 being top management, revealing a shift towards digitalization for the past 3+ years, particularly catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper identified that 75% of SheCanCode-Rwanda participants believe that digital transformation has a positive impact on their operational efficiency. at the level of 75%. However, based on the fact that the integration level is at 3.8 out 5, the management has committed itself to continue improve digital technologies into the operational processes, strategic partnerships, and continuous monitoring and evaluation strategies to enhance adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges.
Keywords: Digital Transformation, Operational Efficiency, Emerging Economies and Organizational Adaptation
